The Ministry of Health & Wellness is pleased to announce that on Friday 20th October, 2023the 1st cohort of 50 Bahamian men and women departed for a remarkable medical mission to the Republic of Cuba. The patients will undergo essential cataract and retinal surgeries.The Minister of Health & Wellness, the Honourable Dr. Michael R. Darville, and eleven support staff inclusive of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Eye Nurses and Patient CareAssistants accompanied the cohort to Cuba. This mission marks the beginning of a transformative healthcare initiative that has the potential to benefit up to 600 patients representing a monumental step forward in addressing critical eye health issues in our nation.

Over the course of one week, while in Cuba the participants will be involved in additionalscreenings and assessments; surgery, treatment and follow up care prior to their travel backto the capital next Friday. The members of the 1st cohort will continue to receive scheduledfollow-up care once back in The Bahamas at the Eye Care Centre to ensure a full andsuccessful recovery process.

Funding for this medical mission is allocated from the Catastrophic Healthcare Budget,underscoring the Government’s commitment to ensuring that Bahamian citizens haveaccess to long awaited medical services. Minister Darville stated, “This initiative has beenfive months in the making and is a remarkable step towards enhancing the quality of life forour citizens and it underscores the Ministry’s commitment to accessible healthcare for all.”

Minister Darville also expressed his gratitude to the Cuban Government and AmbassadorJulio Cesar Gonzalez Marchante for the invaluable support given in making this medicalmission a reality. He stated, “This collaboration is a demonstration of our continued sharedcommitment to fostering good health and wellness for our citizens.”